The biggest disappointment for UK buyers, however, is that the best performance of the differential is on an RS 3 fitted to Pirelli Trofeo R tyres. In other markets these tyres are available, but they’re not on offer here. If you plan on ever taking your RS 3 on track, I’d hunt a set out, because it makes the whole package gel perfectly.
Along with the technical changes, the RS 3’s cosmetics got a glow-up in 2024. You can tell the difference between it and earlier models by its wider, flatter front grille, extravagant side intakes (with customisable graphics), a straighter splitter on the front, and revised daytime running lights for LED headlights.
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Head-to-head
On the road
Both cars show incredible pace across pretty much any road. The RS 3 has an advantage in slippery conditions thanks to its quattro all-wheel-drive system and dual-clutch automatic gearbox. We’d gladly trade a tiny bit of speed to enjoy the Civic’s six-speed manual. The thrill of a perfectly timed downshift in a twisty highway is hard to beat. While both cars are huge fun, the Civic gets our vote.
Tech highlights
There are two significantly different takes on the hot-hatch formula here. Both cars have turbos but that’s about it. The Civic has a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine driving the front wheels. Audi’s 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine produces 394bhp, but it requires four-wheel-drive to put that power to good use. The RS 3 is 211kg heavier than the Honda Civic, despite the extra power. Audi’s residual value is excellent, with a retention rate of over 60% after 3 years. However, at 56 per cent, the Civic is fairly strong, too.
Practicality
From a family-car perspective, the Honda is the better option. The Honda is the better choice for a family car. The Honda has more legroom than the RS 3 but the Audi offers a bit more headroom. The RS 3’s quattro system also compromises overall boot capacity, so the Honda has much more load space to play with, too.
Safety
Both of these cars have been tested by Euro NCAP in their more conventional hatchback forms, and both were awarded five stars. Audi’s PS340 charge for an airbag in the middle of the front seats that reduces injury risk during side collisions is a bit excessive. Adaptive cruise control and all-round parking sensors are standard on both the Audi and the Honda.
Ownership
A three-year warranty and roadside assistance are standard with these cars, but Honda drivers can extend both the warranty and breakdown cover to five years as part of a PS1,198 service plan (the five-year service plan costs PS799 on its own). Audi was ranked 19th out of 31 manufacturers in our 2025 Driver-Power Customer Satisfaction Survey. Honda performed better, however, taking 10th place.
Verdict
Winner: Honda Civic Type R
The Civic Type R has been our favourite hot hatch for some time, and our latest encounter only reinforces that stance. The Type R is still a better driving experience than the Audi RS 3 even when compared to the latest version.